The names of eight community-spirited residents in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge who are to receive Civic Awards next month have been announced this week.
Graham Cook, Frankie Gratton, Rosemarie Parsons, Mike Ross and the Pusill family have been named by the Town Council as winners of the awards, which will be presented on Sunday 14th August during the 25th annual civic service in Burnham’s St Andrew’s Church.
Graham Cook (pictured above) was nominated for the time and effort he has put in organising many free music events in the town, including Burnham’s annual FolkFest and events in the Manor Gardens, where he provides sound equipment.
Rosemarie Parsons (pictured right) will also be given a Civic Award for her involvement on many local committees, including the Sea Cadets, St John’s Church in Highbridge, and in particular as governor of the new Churchfield School and Chairman of Highbridge Community Hall.
Mike Ross will also receive a Civic Award for his long-running involvement as treasurer for many local organisations, including BARB, Burnham RNLI and the BAY Centre.
Frankie Gratton will also receive an award for her involvement with many community activities including WRVS, Blood Donors, Sounds and Voices, Town Twinning, U3A, Ladies Circle and Burnham’s Amateur Dramatic Society to name a few.
A special award will also be made this year to the Pusill family for their long involvement with Burnham’s swimming club.
Pat (pictured right) will be rewarded for her dedication in running Burnham-on-Sea Swimming Club for over 30 years.
She has made it possible for many children and adults to learn to swim and take part in galas and triathlons.
David Pusill will also be recognised for his support behind the scenes, particularly with the large amount of paperwork, letters, membership information, design, programmes and registers.
And Sarah Pusil will also receive an award for coaching and teaching children, adults and disabled people to swim in Burnham.
This year’s Civic Awards ceremony will be the 25th annual event and it will also mark the presentation of the 100th award.
The Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Michael Clarke and Maria Clarke, will be joined by John Cullum, High Sheriff of Somerset, for the ceremony at 3pm, which will be followed by a Civic Reception at the Princess Theatre and Arts Centre.
